Myanmar Military Continues Airstrikes As Deadly Earthquake Hits Myanmar

Myanmar Military Continues Airstrikes Amid Deadly Earthquake

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: March 31, 2025

Summary: As the earthquake aftermath unfolds in Myanmar, the military continues airstrikes on rebel-held towns.

The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is getting worse as the military continues to carry out airstrikes on areas controlled by rebels, despite the country still recovering from the terrible 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The military is persistent in its attacks against rebel forces, worsening the situation and casualties.

The earthquake caused major damage to many towns and villages. Many buildings collapsed, and infrastructure was badly destroyed, leaving thousands in desperate need of assistance. But rather than concentrating on helping, Myanmar's military keeps up its onslaught against rebel groups in many areas.

According to reports, airstrikes targeted key towns controlled by opposition groups, including Loikaw, the capital of the eastern Kayah state, which has been a major center of conflict between the military and armed resistance groups. Residents reported hearing loud explosions as military jets flew overhead, dropping bombs on residential areas despite the ongoing natural disaster.

Eyewitnesses and local media sources stated that hospitals and shelters set up for earthquake victims were also impacted by the strikes. Many injured people were already struggling to receive medical attention due to the quake's damage to health infrastructure. The military's continued bombardment has made it even more difficult for humanitarian organizations to reach affected areas.

The ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s ruling military junta and resistance groups has been escalating since the 2021 coup. An extended civil war has resulted from rebel organizations rebelling against military rule, such as ethnic armed groups and the People's Defense Force (PDF). Even at the expense of civilian lives and aid efforts, the junta's recent attacks demonstrate their will to destroy opposition strongholds.

Human rights organizations and international organizations have strongly criticized the military's conduct and urged an immediate ceasefire so that relief work after the disaster can resume. Even though thousands of people are fighting to survive, Myanmar's ruling authorities are yet to announce that they will be discontinuing their military assault.

As the crisis unfolds, the people of Myanmar are caught between a devastating natural disaster and an unrelenting military offensive, with no clear end in sight.